FOOD FOR THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

Mar

13

News Release: ORA Endorses Mike DeWine for Governor

'COLUMBUS, Ohio (Mar. 13, 2018) -- The Ohio Restaurant Association (ORA) Board of Directors today enthusiastically announced its endorsement of Mike DeWine for Governor and Jon Husted for Lieutenant Governor. “Mike DeWine has been a tireless advocate for Ohio’s small business community, and has a special understanding of and appreciation for the unique challenges that face the restaurant industry,” said ORA President and CEO John Barker. “His pro-business, pro-growth, pro-jobs stance on the issues that matter most to our members has earned him our endorsement for governor.”

Today’s announcement is unique in that the ORA has never endorsed a candidate this early in the political process. Barker said DeWine’s track record of support on issues important to ORA members was key to the decision to endorse early.

Mike and Fran DeWine are also long-time supporters of the Ohio Restaurant Association Education Foundation’s Ohio ProStart® program, a two-year high school program that connects students in the classroom with real-world experiences, and develops the next generation of leaders in restaurant management, culinary arts and foodservice industry. The DeWines have awarded several scholarships to Ohio ProStart students over the years to help them further their post-secondary education.

The ORA recently honored DeWine with their Public Official of the Year Award at its annual Industry Awards Celebration in January. ORA Board Chairman Jamie Richardson recognized DeWine’s track record of outstanding service to Ohio saying, “Mike understands that jobs matter, and the restaurant industry is proud to work with public officials like him who work hard for every Ohioan,” Richardson said.

“Ohio’s restaurant industry is the state’s third-largest private sector employer, with $20.9 billion in sales and nearly 575,000 employees,” Barker said. “It’s critical that our next governor has an in-depth understanding of the impact our industry has on Ohio’s economy,” Barker said. “Mike DeWine’s unmatched record of service to Ohio and its people makes him the obvious choice for governor.”

Mike DeWine with ORA Board Members and Director of Government Affairs Joe Rosato.

Mike and Fran DeWine supporting Ohio ProStart students at annual Celebration of the Stars.

About the Ohio Restaurant Association

For nearly 100 years, The Ohio Restaurant Association is the leading business trade association promoting, protecting and partnering with Ohio’s $20.9 billion restaurant and foodservice industry. The ORA represents the third-largest private sector employer in the state, including 22,000 locations and more than 575,000 employees, and helps members build customer loyalty, rewarding careers and financial success with a range of services and thought leadership.